As you may know, February is “Women in Horror” month. To celebrate, PromoteHorror.com asked women from different professions if they would like to answer some questions about being a “Woman in Horror,” and more. One of those women, who was kind enough to answer our questions, was writer Mandie Mortem. Lets see what she said about being a “Woman in Horror”…
-PH: When did you first become a horror fan?
-Mandie: As far back as I can remember to be honest. Even though my family were somewhat insanely religious, I still found myself always fascinated by spooky things. In grade school, the Goosebumps books were a real big thing and just bursting onto the scene. I spent all my allowance during the book fairs at school buying those books.
-PH: Was there a specific moment when you realized that you wanted to go from being a fan of horror to a woman who contributes to the genre, or did it just kind of happen naturally?
-Mandie: It just kind of happened naturally. I’ve always watched horror films because I got a thrill from the adrenaline of being scared. I think that’s why a lot of people like watching them honestly. There’s a controlled fright aspect where you can be afraid, but safe in the comfort of a movie theater or your own home at the same time.
I’ve always been a writer at heart so it makes sense that I would eventually start writing spooky things. Either way, I feel that Horror in general has always been at the fore front of my life.
-PH: What does having a “Women in Horror” month mean to you?
-Mandie: Basically that in itself. Honoring women of the Horror genre and unifying us all by putting a spotlight on them. I think it’s pretty great and uplifting, so thank you for that.
-PH: Is there a woman in horror who you consider a role model?
-Mandie: I know this is going to sound so cliche but I grew up during the same time Christina Ricci was starring in some spooky films. I feel like she really has been a role model of darker things and it’s really great to have that diversity aside from the more cookie cutter cheerleader type.
-PH: How do you think the role of women in horror has changed over the years?
-Mandie: I think it has changed in the sense that women can hold their own as a lead in some Horror films and those films still be successful.
-PH: What do you think the future holds for women in horror?
-Mandie: Hopefully more lead roles in Horror films as well as more female Horror writers. I would love to also see more female Horror narraters on the scene in Youtube and other platforms.
-PH: If you could serve a role in horror that you’ve never done, what would it be?
Mande: Well, I’d like to further my narrating of Horror stories into videos. I really need to work on that in the future.
-PH: Who is your favorite female villain?
-Mandie: Hmm. I always liked Cat Woman lol. She became very strong and independent. I also like the aspect of seduction she uses to get her way. It’s very devious and I enjoy that.
-PH: Being that this is PromoteHorror.com, please feel free to plug your current/next horror project.
Twitter: Twitter.com/MandieMortem
We would like to thank Mandie Mortem for taking the time to answer our questions, but more importantly for her contribution to horror!
